Michigan House Resolution Banning Trans Athletes

The debate surrounding trans athletes in Michigan has intensified recently, particularly concerning transgender girls participating in women’s sports. In March 2025, the Michigan House of Representatives passed a resolution urging the Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA) to ban transgender girls from participating in girls’ sports. This resolution, supported by all Republicans and eight Democrats, reflects broader national discussions on the fairness and safety of allowing transgender athletes to compete according to their gender identity. The MI house bans trans athletes to comply with President Trump’s executive order.

Key Arguments

Arguments in favor of the House Resolution often center on the belief that transgender women retain inherent physical advantages, even after hormone therapy, potentially jeopardizing fair competition and the safety of cisgender women athletes. Proponents sometimes invoke Title IX and President Trump’s Executive Order as justification. State Sen. Joseph Bellino, for example, has argued that fair competition is important to protect opportunities for girls. The Michigan Republican Women’s Caucus hosted a press conference to highlight biological advantages of males and the need to comply with Trump’s executive order.

Conversely, opponents of such bans argue that they are discriminatory and harmful to transgender youth, who already face significant challenges. The science has never supported categorical bans on trans athletes. They also emphasize the importance of inclusivity and the potential for these policies to further marginalize transgender individuals. Rep. Emily Dievendorf spoke against the resolution, highlighting the potential for transgender youth to feel rejected and isolated by their own government. The ACLU of Michigan argues that these actions manufacture a solution for a problem that doesn’t exist and send a negative message to transgender youth. LGBTQ+ advocates have condemned the MI house bans trans athletes measure as an attack on the transgender community.

MHSAA Policy

Currently, the MHSAA has a policy allowing transgender girls to participate in girls’ sports on a case-by-case basis with a waiver. However, only a very small number of athletes utilize this policy, with the MHSAA reporting that only two athletes statewide are currently using the policy. Until those matters are resolved, the MHSAA is not in a position to change its current rules or policies, which again comply with applicable state and federal law.

Scientific Data

The scientific evidence on the athletic performance of transgender women is complex and evolving. Some studies suggest that hormone therapy can reduce, but not eliminate, purely physical advantages. A DW.com fact check notes that a 2020 study indicated that after two years of hormone therapy, the performance of transgender women largely equalized with that of cisgender women. However, other research suggests that hormone therapy may not fully offset the physical advantages gained during male puberty. Further complicating the issue.

Broader Context

The debate extends beyond physical performance to encompass broader ethical considerations, including fairness, inclusion, safety, and the rights of all athletes. As Joanna Harper, a medical physicist at Loughborough University, notes, there is no such thing as 100% fairness in sports, and categories are created to mitigate overwhelming biological differences. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) also emphasizes the importance of balancing the right to participate in sports without discrimination with the credibility of competitive sport.

The ongoing debate in Michigan reflects a larger (often ill informed) national conversation about transgender rights and the role of sports in society. As more research emerges and perspectives evolve, finding equitable and inclusive solutions for these athletes remains critical.

The Michigan House Resolution: Urging a Ban

Key Provisions of the Resolution

The Michigan House Resolution, a non-binding measure, specifically urges the Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA) to prohibit transgender athletes from participating in girls’ and women’s sports. This resolution is directly aligned with President Trump’s executive order “Keeping Men Out of Women’s Sports,” which threatens to rescind federal funds from educational programs that do not comply with its provisions. The resolution asserts that allowing “biological males” to compete in women’s sports defies the executive order and could potentially put female athletes at risk, threaten fairness, and undermine Title IX. The MI house resolution passed with a vote of 66-43, with eight Democrats joining the Republican majority.

Arguments For and Against the Ban

During the House debate, Republicans argued that allowing trans women to compete in women’s sports creates an unfair playing field due to inherent physical advantages. Concerns were raised about the safety of female athletes and the integrity of women’s sports, with some lawmakers asserting that the MHSAA’s existing policies disregard Trump executive order and the need for a level playing field.

Conversely, Democrats (except for 8 defectors) largely opposed the resolution, arguing that it is discriminatory and harmful to transgender youth. They emphasized the MHSAA’s existing evaluation process for transgender athletes and cited studies indicating the benefits of sports participation for LGBTQ+ youth. Opponents also argued that there is a lack of evidence to support claims of athletic advantage, with some stating that the resolution is not about fairness or safety, but about erasing transgender individuals from communities. The MHSAA itself has stated that it complies with state and federal laws and will continue to monitor legal developments.

The MHSAA’s Position

Current MHSAA Policy

The current MHSAA policy regarding transgender athletes in Michigan allows students to participate in sports consistent with their gender identity. This means that a transgender girl is permitted to play on a girls’ team, and a transgender boy on a boys’ team. This policy is rooted in the MHSAA’s commitment to follow all applicable state and federal laws, most notably the Elliot-Larsen Civil Rights Act, which prohibits discrimination based on gender identity.

It’s important to note that the MHSAA policy has faced scrutiny, particularly in light of a resolution passed by the Michigan House urging the MHSAA to ban transgender girls from participating in girls’ sports. Despite this pressure, the MHSAA has maintained its position, citing its adherence to existing laws. In September 2021, the MHSAA Athletic Equity Committee reviewed the current policy and determined it to be sufficient.

Scientific, Legal and Ethical Considerations

The MHSAA navigates a complex landscape of scientific findings, legal precedents, and ethical considerations when crafting its policies on transgender athletes in Michigan. The association faces legal challenges and ethical dilemmas, including potential conflicts between state and federal law, as well as concerns about Title IX compliance.

The science surrounding athletic performance and gender identity is still evolving. A study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine highlights the complexity of transgender athlete physiology. The study compared the strength, power, and aerobic capacity of transgender athletes to cisgender athletes, finding that transgender women athletes demonstrated lower performance in jump height and relative V̇O2max compared to cisgender women, but higher absolute handgrip strength than cisgender women. The study cautioned against broad bans and eligibility exclusions that are not based on sport-specific research, and concluded that transgender women athletes should be evaluated as their own demographic group. This reinforces the need for nuanced, sport-specific policies rather than blanket restrictions.

A PBS NewsHour segment further underscores the ongoing debate, highlighting the tension between fairness and inclusion and noting the incomplete science on competitive advantage, especially concerning elite athletes and the long-term effects of gender-affirming hormone therapy.

Given the evolving scientific understanding and the legal landscape, the MHSAA wants to balance the desire for fair competition with its commitment to inclusivity and non-discrimination, as enshrined in the Elliot-Larsen Civil Rights Act.

The Broader Context: National Trends and Legal Battles

State-Level Legislation

As of March 2025, the landscape of state legislation regarding transgender athlete bans is complex and varied. Across the nation, numerous states have enacted laws addressing the participation of trans people in sports. According to the Movement Advancement Project, 25 states have implemented laws that restrict transgender students from participating in sports that align with their gender identity. Additionally, 2 states have established regulations or agency policies that enforce similar restrictions.

This creates a patchwork of policies that can be confusing for transgender student-athletes and their families. For instance, Alabama’s HB 391 (2021) and HB 261 (2023) mandate that sports categories in K-12 and public colleges be based on assigned sex at birth. Conversely, California’s AB 1266 (2013) requires public schools to allow transgender students access to facilities and sports teams that are consistent with their gender identity. While some states, like Idaho, were among the first to enact such bans, their laws have faced legal challenges. ESPN reports that, as of August 2023, 23 states had passed laws restricting the participation of t.

For a comprehensive overview of these policies on a state-by-state basis, refer to the map provided by the Movement Advancement Project.

Federal Court Challenges

The legality of state-level transgender athlete bans is frequently contested in federal court. Several states, including Arizona, Idaho, Utah, and West Virginia, have had their bans temporarily blocked by court orders. These legal challenges often revolve around arguments related to Title IX, which prohibits sex discrimination in educational programs that receive federal funding. The U.S. House of Representatives passed HR 734, which mirrors legislation adopted by nearly half of the states and declares it a Title IX violation to “allow individuals of the male sex to participate in programs or activities that are designated for women or girls.”

Examining these legal challenges is crucial to understanding their potential impact on Michigan. The outcomes of these cases could set precedents that influence how Michigan’s policies are interpreted and enforced. It’s essential to monitor these developments to fully grasp the legal landscape surrounding transgender athlete bans and Title IX. You can find a state-by-state overview of transgender athlete participation rules in this ESPN article.

Common Questions, Answered

Do trans athletes have an advantage in sports?

The question of whether trans athletes have an advantage in sports is a complex and ongoing debate. Scientific studies and expert opinions offer varying perspectives on the potential physical advantages and disadvantages. Research suggests that the impact of male puberty on muscle mass, bone density, and strength may confer advantages to trans women, even after testosterone suppression (DW, 2025). Testosterone plays a crucial role in muscle growth, and some argue that advantages may persist despite hormone therapy. However, other research indicates that these advantages may be minimal or nonexistent after a period of hormone therapy, with performance overlapping with cisgender women (Roberts et al., 2020). Hormone therapy reduces aerobic capacity and muscle mass, potentially leading to disadvantages in speed, recovery, and endurance (Harper, 2025).

Athlete Ally’s scientific review (2022) emphasizes that testosterone levels do not reliably predict athletic performance and that social factors often outweigh any biological advantages. They note that biomedical research is often overvalued in policy-making. Factors such as access to coaching, training, equipment, and inclusive environments play a more significant role. Furthermore, studies used to inform sport policies often use cisgender men or non-athlete trans women as subjects, which is a flaw in the research.

Why are trans men left out of the conversation around trans athletes?

The absence of trans men from the conversation around trans athletes stems from societal perceptions of gender and athletic ability, with a greater focus on women’s sports and concerns about competitive fairness for cisgender women. The discourse often centers on perceived advantages of trans women, overshadowing the experiences and participation of trans men. While examples are less widely publicized, trans men do compete in sports. Outsports.com reports over three dozen out trans athletes from college sports in the last decade, some of whom are trans men. Bobbie Hirsch, a trans male fencer at Wayne State University, is one example (WSU Athletics, 2023). Chris Mosier, a trans man, has competed in men’s Olympic trials (Them, 2016).

The Voices of Michigan: Impact on Athletes and the Community

The debate surrounding transgender athletes in Michigan and across the nation raises crucial questions about fairness, inclusion, and the well-being of these individuals. Policies and societal attitudes can significantly impact transgender athletes’ mental and physical health, their sense of belonging, and the opportunities available to them.

Impact on Mental and Physical Well-being:

• Mental Health: Exclusionary policies and negative attitudes can lead to increased stress, anxiety, and depression among t. A supportive and inclusive environment, on the other hand, can foster a sense of belonging and improve mental well-being.

• Physical Health: Access to gender-affirming care, including hormone therapy, is essential for the physical health and well-being of many t. Policies that restrict access to such care can have detrimental effects.

Sense of Belonging and Participation:

• Inclusion: Inclusive policies that allow transgender athletes to participate in sports consistent with their gender identity can promote a sense of belonging and encourage participation.

• Exclusion: Policies that exclude trans people can lead to feelings of isolation, marginalization, and a decreased sense of belonging.

Personal Stories and Perspectives:

• A recent “Voices of Youth” article highlighted input from Kalamazoo high school students on the debate surrounding t. The article features interviews with students, administrators, and a transgender athlete, offering diverse perspectives on the issue. One key takeaway from the article is that Loy Norrix High School has been very supportive of trans athletes, and there have been no major issues when it comes to competing. The athletic director, Andrew Laboe, stated that the MHSAA (Michigan High School Athletic Association) has also been super supportive.

Voices from the Community:

• LGBTQ+ advocacy groups and community leaders play a vital role in advocating for the rights and well-being of t. Their voices can help shape policies and promote understanding and acceptance within the LGBTQ+ community. Republican lawmakers in Michigan, however, are urging the MHSAA to comply with President Trump’s executive order to no longer allow transgender girls on female sports teams. This conflict highlights the tension between inclusion and differing views on fairness in sports.

Michigan Democrats’ Shifting Stance

On March 12, 2025, eight Michigan House Democrats broke with their party to vote for a resolution urging the Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA) to ban transgender girls from participating in girls’ sports. This move has sparked controversy and raised concerns about the future of LGBTQ+ rights in the state.

Reasons for the Shift

Several factors may have contributed to this shift among some Michigan Democrats:

• Political Pressure: Some Democrats feared that voting against the resolution would hurt their chances of reelection. The Detroit Free Press quoted State Rep. Alabas Farhat, who mentioned concerns from his district about fairness. This highlights the potential for local political pressures to influence votes on issues related to LGBTQ+ rights.

• Differing Interpretations of Fairness: Farhat stated his vote stemmed from a desire to ensure a fair competitive environment. This suggests a difference in opinion on what constitutes fairness and equality in sports. These differing viewpoints within the Michigan Democratic party underscore the complexity of the issue.

• Resolution Details: The resolution itself called on the MHSAA to adhere to President Donald Trump’s executive order aimed at banning transgender athletes from girls’ and women’s sports, threatening to rescind funding from non-compliant educational programs. This may have added additional pressure, as some lawmakers may have been hesitant to oppose a measure framed as protecting women’s sports.

The eight Democrats who voted in favor of the resolution were State Reps. Alabas Farhat (Dearborn), Peter Herzberg (Westland), Tullio Liberati (Allen Park), Denise Mentzer (Mt. Clemens), Reggie Miller (Van Buren Township), Will Snyder (Muskegon), Angela Witwer (Delta Township), and Mai Xiong (Warren).

Implications for LGBTQ+ Rights

The implications of this shift within the Michigan Democratic party are significant for the future of LGBTQ+ rights:

• Disappointment and Betrayal: LGBTQ+ advocates expressed disappointment and a sense of betrayal, questioning whether the Democratic party is a reliable ally. This raises concerns about the potential erosion of trust between the LGBTQ+ community and the Democratic party.

• Concerns about Bipartisan Support: The vote highlighted concerns that neither major party fully supports the LGBTQ+ community, leaving some feeling politically homeless. This highlights the need for stronger advocacy and representation for LGBTQ+ issues within both major parties.

• Potential Shift in Democratic Stance: The vote suggests a possible change in how some Democrats are approaching issues related to transgender rights, potentially signaling a move towards more conservative positions. This shift raises concerns about the future of LGBTQ+ rights legislation and policy in Michigan.

The MHSAA has stated that it “follows and will continue to follow all applicable state and federal laws.” They are monitoring legal developments and will adjust their policies accordingly.

According to the Williams Institute, a UCLA Law school think tank that studies gender identity and sexual orientation law and policy, there are approximately 300,100 transgender youth ages 13-17. They estimate that as many as 122,000 trans youth may be participating in sports at the high school level. This provides important context for understanding the potential impact of these policies on transgender youth in Michigan.

What’s Next for Transgender Athletes in Michigan?

What’s Next for Transgender Athletes in Michigan?

The future of transgender athletes in Michigan remains uncertain, balancing legislative pressures, potential legal challenges, and the MHSAA’s commitment to following applicable laws. As debates continue and policies evolve, ensuring fairness and inclusion for all athletes is paramount.

Potential Future Developments

Several factors could influence the future of transgender athletes in Michigan. These include:

• Legislative Action: While a resolution urging the MHSAA to ban transgender girls from girls’ sports gained some Democratic support in the Michigan House, the Senate, controlled by Democrats, has shown no interest in similar measures. This division suggests ongoing political debate but no immediate legislative changes at the state level. The future of transgender athletes may depend on the Michigan House and Senate coming to a consensus regarding the issue.
• Legal Challenges: Bans on transgender athletes are facing legal challenges under Title IX and the Equal Protection Clause of the U.S. Constitution. Court decisions could play a significant role in determining the rights and protections afforded to transgender student-athletes, regardless of potential changes in federal agency regulations.
• MHSAA Policy Changes: Currently, the MHSAA addresses transgender athlete participation through individual waivers. The association has stated it “follows and will continue to follow all applicable state and federal laws” and is monitoring legal developments and potential changes to state law. The MHSAA’s stance may shift depending on the outcomes of legal challenges and legislative actions.

Possible Outcomes

The future could bring several possible outcomes for transgender athletes in Michigan. These scenarios include:

• Continued Case-by-Case Waivers: The MHSAA could maintain its current policy of issuing waivers on a case-by-case basis. This approach allows for individual consideration but may lack consistency and clarity.
• Legislative Ban: A statewide ban on transgender athletes participating in sports consistent with their gender identity could be enacted if the House and Senate reach an agreement. This would align Michigan with the 27 other states that have implemented such bans, affecting an estimated 117,400 transgender youth aged 13-17.
• Judicial Intervention: Courts could rule against existing or future bans, citing violations of Title IX or the Equal Protection Clause. Such rulings could establish legal precedents that protect the rights of transgender athletes to participate in sports consistent with their gender identity.

Let Your Representatives Know How You Feel

Let Your Representatives Know How You Feel

It’s crucial to remember that your voice matters. Elected officials and their staff genuinely value constituent input, and sharing your thoughts and perspectives can influence their decisions and shape policy. Your participation is vital to ensuring a fair and inclusive environment for all athletes.

Finding and Contacting Your Representatives

To find your specific representatives, use the “Find Your Representative” tool on the Michigan House of Representatives website. This tool allows you to locate your representatives based on your address.

You can contact Michigan State representatives via email, phone, or mail. Contact information for all representatives can be found here.

For your convenience, here is the contact information for the 66 House Representatives who voted in favor of the resolution:

(Please note, due to the dynamic nature of legislative information, it’s always best to double-check this information on the official Michigan House of Representatives website)

Tips for Effective Communication

To ensure your message is heard, consider the following tips to increase r and foster meaningful reader engagement:

• Be Original and Personal: Craft your own message using your own words. Legislators value thoughtful, original letters more than form letters.
• Stay Brief: Keep your message concise and to the point. A one-page letter or email is ideal.
• State Your Purpose Clearly: Identify yourself as a constituent and clearly state the reason for your writing in the first paragraph. Mention the specific bill number or name if you know it.
• Personalize Your Message: Share any personal stories or experiences related to the issue. Explain how the legislation will impact you or your community.
• Be Respectful: Maintain a respectful tone, even if you disagree with the representative’s position. Avoid profanity or disrespectful language.
• Include Your Address: Include your address in your signature to confirm you are a constituent.
• Follow Up: After contacting your representative, follow up to see how they voted or acted on the issue. A thank-you note is appropriate if they supported your position. Respectfully express your disappointment if they did not.
• Phone Calls: Be brief, cordial, and courteous in all phone conversations.